Argumentative Essay: Entertainment During The Civil War

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Entertainment During the Civil War Entertainment during the Civil War helped to encourage both soldiers and civilians in times of emotional hardships. It allowed for inspiration to shine through the darkness of depression. Many were comforted and supported by others in the unity of entertainment. The types of entertainment were varied, but all enabled expression. Photography was one form of entertainment during the Civil War. The type of photography that was particularly popular during the time of the Civil War was known as 3-D, or stereoscopic, photography. All Americans were able to enjoy it, despite social status. American culture during the 1860s was largely impacted by this form of photography, especially during the Civil War. …show more content…

Songs were important to all Civil War soldiers. It encouraged both soldiers and civilians, and music provided inspiration and a way to handle the emotional strains of battle for soldiers. For those living in camps, the music that was most enjoyed was a mixture of tenderness and patriotism (Barney 208-209). Many instruments were used to produce music. Banjos, fiddles, and harmonicas are a few of the instruments that soldiers purchased or created (“19th Century American Theater”). During the Civil War, there was a large amount of growth in the publishing of sheet music. In fact, a cabinet was reserved just for holding sheet music in the homes of some middle-class families (Huntington). In camps, music was used for two purposes. Field music was used to signal soldiers in battle and in camp activities. Band music was played during battles to inspire and encourage. Music was a great form of entertainment that aided emotionally for both soldiers and civilians …show more content…

There is a myth that says the sport was created by Abner Doubleday, a Civil War general. This is false, but baseball was enjoyed by soldiers for its many advantages. Many believed that it was beneficial in preparing to fight and that it allowed for physical development. Baseball also gave soldiers entertainment, encouragement, and enabled them to work together. After the Civil War was over, baseball helped in unifying a nation that had fallen apart (Kirsch).
Entertainment varied in the Union and Confederacy. In the North, there was a great diversity of ethnicities and more people lived in urban areas. Since there were larger populations with a variety of people, entertainment focused on large, diverse groups. Spectator sports, such as horseracing, boxing, and baseball, were enjoyed, along with betting on these types of events. Urban live entertainment was also well-like, especially vaudeville variety shows and traveling circuses

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